| Don McClennen |
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Beneath the expressive patterns executed in brilliant, saturated colour underlies the precision and control required to create these outstanding works in glass. Don McClennen's approach to fused and kiln formed glass combines his background in Architecture and his love of drawing and painting. Primarily self-taught, Don's works have evolved over the last 12 years as he continues to experiment with the materials and process. Although kiln formed glass is a well established art form, Don's illustrative approach to pattern demonstrates the intricate detail one can obtain from this very precise technique. This is particularly evident in his colourful Riot series in which bold strokes and shapes of colour are neatly arranged to create distinct patterns. The series arose from Don's desire to use contrasting colours to execute an abstract, painterly quality in glass on large scale works that would act as his canvas. Individual shapes are cut and polished from different coloured glass sheets and carefully arranged on a substrate before being fired in a kiln to 1500 F, at which point the glass will fuse to each other. The works are then fired again in a shaped mold in a process called slumping to give the piece form. Don's other series of Kiln Carved glass possess the same illustrative patterns seen in his Riot series but are executed in a more dimensional and textural way. The patterns are created using powdered glass, which is melted and formed by a mold. Although not as colourful as the Riot series, Don's kiln carved pieces relies more on the texture and intricate patterns in the glass to attract the eye. As a glass artist Don McClennen is always experimenting and trying to push the boundaries within the art form. This has allowed Don to become a well respected individual within the discipline and has encouraged him to pass on his knowledge and technique as a teacher of Kiln formed glass for the past 8 years.
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